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So you’ve just been laid off. Or maybe you're a recent graduate who hasn't found a job yet.
As if joblessness weren’t enough of a blow to your self-esteem, you find yourself with no other choice but to move back home – back to the place you thought you'd managed to escape from forever.
Let’s be honest, moving back home is nothing to brag about, especially if you've been independent for a while.
But you take the good with the bad. And there's plenty of both.
#1 Best: The Price is Right
This one is a no-brainer. It’s probably the reason you moved home in the first place (and if it’s not, what's wrong with you?). Not only is living at home rent-free (at least we hope!), but the perks tend to be hard to turn down. Need to borrow $20? Most of the time, parents can't resist lending a hand.
So when it all gets to be a little too much, think about how much money you're saving. Even if you've been asked to chip in a few hundred dollars a month, it's a whole lot better than spiraling debt.
#2 Best: Roommates—Better the Devil You Know
We've all endured a horrible roommate experience at one point or another. Remember that uncomfortable feeling of not wanting to return to your dorm or apartment for fear of seeing your roommate who's been hogging your food, trashing the place, or letting her terrifying drug-addict boyfriend all but move in? Not fun.
At least at home, you know what you’re getting yourself into. You’ve known these people your whole life. They may trash your bathroom and steal your clothes, but yelling at them is perfectly acceptable. Moving home is also a chance to reconnect with your family members as an adult.
You may be spending a little too much time with them right now, but when you do move out, you'll be happy you had this quality time to ground yourself.
#3 Best: Housekeeping? My Mom Does It All!
We’ve all gone through that messy college phase. And perhaps that phase is not quite over? For me, moving back home has brought it back, full force. Why? Because mom does all the cleaning and laundry (lucky me!). She roams the hallways armed with Windex and the laundry bag to make sure everything is spick and span.
Admittedly, she's a little intense about the cleanliness. But I'd rather have that than a disgusting pile of dishes or a roach-infested kitchen.
#4: Best: Mom’s Home Cooking
We’ve all craved for that home cooking when far away. Nothing feels more comforting than the aroma of a pot roast simmering in a garlic wine sauce. Well guess what – now I get that every day. And if you’re lucky (like I am), not only is it delicious and free, but it’s also healthy!
Coming home is a chance to start eating right and getting back in shape. No more binging on pizza every night while watching "So You Think You Can Dance" — instead, it's a sit-down dinner with the fam. Sure, it might get a tad bit annoying as arguments erupt over everything from politics to cleaning the closets, but it sure beats lonely dinners on the couch.
#5 Best: A 24/7 Support System
Speaking of lonely... In college, you were surrounded by your dorm mates. But when you graduated and moved into a little studio in New York City or LA, it was a whole different story.
Move back home and you can kiss loneliness goodbye. Your support system is always there, whether you want it or not (and trust me, sometimes I don't!). Your mom's nagging might be annoying at times, but enjoy it while you have it. These people love you and will support you no matter what. Maybe home is sweet after all...
